Tooth Extraction

While Keith Coe, DDS, always prefers to take a conservative approach to dental care, there are times when tooth extraction is the best path. Stagecoach Children's Dental Center in Magnolia, Texas, offers painless tooth extraction procedures to help kids and teens move forward in their dental health journey. Call today to schedule a visit, or spend a few moments on the online booking page.

When is tooth extraction necessary?

Tooth extraction is a dental treatment that removes a tooth from its socket, including the root portion of a tooth that lies beneath the gum line. There are several reasons why kids and teens might need an extraction. 

Reasons for an extraction might include:

• Removing a severely decayed tooth
• Removing a broken tooth that cannot be treated with a crown
• Addressing teeth crowding
• Preparing for orthodontic treatment
• Removing an impacted tooth
• Treating advanced gum disease

If Dr. Coe believes an extraction is the right course of action, he explains the procedure in detail and presents all treatment alternatives. In many cases, extractions are the result of a dental emergency. Stagecoach Children’s Dental Center offers emergency dentistry services to meet these urgent needs. 

What happens during pediatric tooth extractions?

Extractions begin with a shot of numbing medication to ensure kids and teens remain comfortable throughout the visit. Once the medication takes effect, Dr. Coe begins the process of removing the bond between tooth and bone. 

A dental tool called an elevator allows Dr. Coe to create a gentle back-and-forth rocking motion that weakens the connection between tooth and bone. Forceps allow him to grasp the tooth and remove it from the socket. 

In some cases, a tooth must be broken into smaller pieces to aid in removal. Again, your child won’t feel any pain during this process. When a tooth is fully or partially trapped beneath the gum tissue, an incision might be necessary to access and remove the tooth. 

How do I ease the recovery process after tooth extractions?

Dr. Coe provides thorough postprocedure care instructions. Adhering to these guidelines is an important part of a successful recovery. 

Your child will need to eat soft foods for a couple of days to avoid damaging the socket. It’s also important to avoid drinking through a straw or creating any form of suction. A small blood clot forms within the empty socket, and dislodging this clot can complicate healing. 

Refrain from brushing or flossing in the immediate area for a few days, although other teeth can be cared for normally. The healing process moves forward very quickly, and before long, the gum tissue is fully restored. 

If you have more questions about tooth extraction, call Stagecoach Children’s Dental Center today to book a visit or use the online scheduling tool any time of day.